This will help many.
A new blood test could offer an early detection method for dementia by identifying protein levels that signal changes in brain function before cognitive decline sets in. The test focuses on placental growth factor (PlGF), a protein involved in regulating the movement of substances through blood vessel walls. Higher levels of PlGF could indicate a higher risk for brain damage that leads to cognitive impairment and dementia, according to a study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia on December 18.
Researchers, led by Dr. Kyle Kern from UCLA Health, suggest that this blood test could serve as a cost-effective screening tool to identify individuals at risk for vascular brain injury. This could help doctors spot issues before cognitive decline becomes noticeable, offering a proactive approach to protecting brain health. The test could also assist researchers in selecting patients for clinical trials aimed at developing treatments for dementia.
The study examined blood samples and MRI scans from 370 seniors, revealing that elevated PlGF levels were linked to more water retention in the brain and changes in white matter, which are known to accelerate brain aging. These brain changes were associated with poorer cognitive performance, highlighting the potential for early detection through the PlGF test.
Currently, brain health issues related to dementia are diagnosed through MRI scans, which often detect damage only after it has already occurred. By identifying risks early, doctors might be able to implement treatments or lifestyle changes that could slow or prevent further brain deterioration. The researchers hope this blood test could be used not just in older adults but in younger populations as well, potentially reversing vascular injury before cognitive dysfunction begins.
However, the study’s authors emphasized the need for further research to validate the effectiveness of PlGF as a reliable indicator of dementia. While early detection is promising, additional studies will be necessary to confirm the test’s long-term accuracy and its ability to predict dementia in a broader population.
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